The Kirkus Prize is one of the richest literary awards in the world, with a prize of $50,000 bestowed annually to authors of fiction, nonfiction and young readers’ literature. It was created to celebrate the 81 years of discerning, thoughtful criticism Kirkus Reviews has contributed to both the publishing industry and readers at large. Books that earned the Kirkus Star with publication dates between November 1, 2014, and October 31, 2015 (see FAQ for exceptions), are automatically nominated for the 2015 Kirkus Prize, and the winners will be selected on October 15, 2015, by an esteemed panel composed of nationally respected writers and highly regarded booksellers, librarians and Kirkus critics.

Everyone Has a Secret Love Story (But We Bet You Haven't Heard of These) [SHOWING SLIDE 9 OF 10]

Okay, maybe your greatest love story isn’t so secret—let’s say you’re married to the love of your life. But is there anyone who hasn’t had a secret crush? These books tell love stories you haven’t heard before—love that’s stunted by war, love that burns across borders, even love that’s adulterous. Some of these characters clearly think no one would want to ever tell their love stories, but we’re glad they exist in these 10 books.

The author of the popular Lemony Snicket series of children's books puts a playful spin on adult themes of love and lust, showing a narrative ingenuity that should delight readers interested in exploring the possibilities of fiction. Read full book review >

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